From Big island Hilo Private Shore Excursion and Waterfalls Tour
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From Big island Hilo Private Shore Excursion and Waterfalls Tour

Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore enchanting sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring waterfalls, black sand beach and more .You'll make stops at Akaka Waterfalls, plus Rainbow Falls and several other Hawaii highlights.
Blink and you may think you’re in Japan as you stroll through peaceful Liliʻuokalani Gardens, named after Hawaiʻi's last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani. Located on Hilo's Banyan Drive.
Whether you're a first time visitor or returning to the Big Island for another look, this tour is right for you. Akaka Waterfalls will take you through a lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns..
A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included.
Maximum private tour size : 5 persons

Available options

Private tour 1-5 persons

SUV or Van<br/>Pickup included

Private tour 4-7 persons

Upto 7 persons in a van or SUV<br/>Pickup included

Private tour 1-3 persons

SUV /Sedan or van<br/>Pickup included

Private Tour 1-2 persons

Pick up and drop off included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled Water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local Guide
Pick up and Drop off

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Start the adenture towards Hawaii Volcanoes National Park driving through the historical Banyan Drive- a tree-lined street at the shoreline of Hilo, Hawaii. It is known as the "Hilo Walk of Fame" for the banyan trees planted by celebrities. These trees have withstood several tsunamis that have devastated the town on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The trees, which still bear the names of the planters, honor movie stars, religious leaders, political leaders, famous authors, adventurers and local Hawaiians.

Total Drive Time to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and beyond : 1 hour

2
Stop 2

Blink and you may think you’re in Japan as you stroll through peaceful Liliʻuokalani Gardens, named after Hawaiʻi's last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani. Located on Hilo's Banyan Drive, this authentic, 24.67-acre Japanese garden was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to Hawaiʻi's first Japanese immigrants who worked in the island of Hawaiʻi's sugar cane fields.

This beautifully landscaped park features arching bridges over fishponds, rock gardens, pagodas, Japanese stone lanterns and a teahouse. Views of Hilo Bay and Mokuola (Coconut Island) enhance this peaceful setting. With so much to see, this is a popular park for families to explore while they’re visiting the Hilo area.

3
Stop 3

At ʻAkaka Falls State Park, located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, you can see two gorgeous waterfalls on one short hike. The pleasant 0.4-mile uphill hike will take you through a lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns.

As you follow the paved footpath, you'll first see 100-foot Kahuna Falls. Continue to follow the loop around the bend, and you'll discover towering ʻAkaka Falls which plummets 442-feet into a stream-eroded gorge. Beautiful ʻAkaka Falls is perhaps the island of Hawaiʻi's most famous waterfall. Easily accessible, this hike takes less than an hour.

4
Stop 4

Rainbow Falls is an awe-inspiring waterfall that tumbles 80 feet into the Wailuku River that gushes below. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, this waterfall is easily reached from downtown Hilo as itʻs just a 5-minute drive away. Known as Waiānuenue in Hawaiian language, the name translates to “rainbow [seen in] water” and is befitting for these falls, as the rising sun commonly ignites a dazzling rainbow in the mist.

Visit Rainbow Falls to experience the home of Hina, the ancient Hawaiian moon goddess, that is said to live within a lava cave encapsulated behind the falls. This peaceful oasis is a fantastic place to visit in the early morning to view the falls and explore the stunning natural environment that surrounds them.

5
Stop 5

These two geologic attractions line the 18-mile Wailuku River, the state’s second longest tributary. Part of Wailuku River State Park, their free, scenic lookouts are open during daylight hours and offer parking and restrooms.

The Boiling Pots is about 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls and is a succession of eroded, hollowed out lava formations that fill with the flow of the river. When the river is engorged with storm runoff, the “pots” fill to the brim, become turbulent and appear to “boil.” Access the Boiling Pots via Waianuenue Avenue to Peepee Falls Road. Pronounced peh-eh-peh-eh, Peepee Falls can also be seen from the Boiling Pots lookout.

6

Drop off the guests

What's not included

Gratuities
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Safe for all age groups
Not recommended for pregnant travelers with due date within 2 months

About Hilo

Hilo, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

Top Attractions

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore lava tubes, craters, and scenic overlooks.

Nature Full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Rainbow Falls

A beautiful waterfall located in a lush, tropical setting. The falls are especially stunning in the early morning light.

Nature 30-60 minutes Free

Liliuokalani Gardens

A beautiful, historic park with Japanese-inspired gardens, ponds, and bridges. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of Hilo.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's often served over rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Loco Moco

A Hawaiian comfort food dish made with rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, eggs, gluten (gravy)

Shave Ice

A popular Hawaiian treat made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. It's often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegan options available (ask for no condensed milk or ice cream)

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Stargazing Beach lounging Spas Scenic drives Museum visits Historical sites

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather with lower rainfall and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hilo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides when swimming or engaging in water activities

Getting there

By air
  • Hilo International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center
By bus

Hilo Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Hilo, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Hilo Pana'ewa

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit
30 miles (48 km) north of Hilo • Full day

The Mauna Kea summit offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Akaka Falls State Park
11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo • Half day

This state park is home to the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.

Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
25 miles (40 km) south of Hilo • Half day

This private garden and reserve offers a variety of tropical plants, exotic birds, and scenic views.

Festivals

Hilo International Festival • Late September to early November Merrie Monarch Festival • April

Pro tips

  • Visit the Hilo Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and Hawaiian souvenirs
  • Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about Hilo's rich cultural heritage
  • Take a guided tour of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to learn about the park's geology and history
  • Try local foods and support local businesses to get a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine
  • Be prepared for rain and bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the wet season
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 7
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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